Browsing by Author "Ogwel, Bernard Patrick"

Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
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    Exploring the effect of digital finance on financial inclusion in Uganda, a reflection from Lira City
    (Emerald Publishing, 2025-03-18) Eton, Marus; Mwosi, Fabian; Amandu, Ishaq Yassin; Ocan, Johnson; Ogwel, Bernard Patrick
    Purpose—The study aims to discuss financial inclusion (FI) as a facilitator of digital financing, with the intention of solving challenges relating to financial exclusion. Design/methodology/approach—To understand the nexus between digital finance (DF) and FI, both descriptive and correlation research designs were used. The study collected data from 300 respondents, including vendors and dealers in agricultural produce, who were selected purposively and randomly. Findings—The study found a significant contribution of DF to FI and significant variations in FI due to mobile money (MM) and Internet banking. MM and smartphones are very often used in performing commercial transactions due to their easy accessibility compared to ATMs, the Internet, and agent banking, which are always restricted. Research limitations/implications—The study only focused on how the DF platform affects financial inclusiveness in Lira City and did not explore other financial services. Social implications—The quickest and widest adoption of MM by rural communities is mostly due to its user-friendliness, which seems to be lacking in other bank applications or products. Originality/value—The study offers significant insight into challenges related to financial inclusiveness, which is a global concern for many economies.
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    Mobile money and the dynamics of income inequality
    (Research & Innovation Initiative, 2025-11-29) Eton, Marus; Ocan, Johnson; Ogwel, Bernard Patrick; Andama, Felix Adiburu
    Purpose: This article examines the relationship between mobile money adoption and income inequality in Arua City, Uganda. Although mobile money is often promoted as a tool for financial inclusion, its distributional outcomes remain underexplored. Methods: The study uses a mixed qualitative approach, combining household surveys, econometric analysis, and interviews to examine how mobile money affects income disparities. This methodology provides a comprehensive quantitative insight into usage patterns, household income distribution, and individual experiences. Results: Results indicate that mobile money facilitates financial participation, enhances household resilience, and expands economic opportunities, particularly for marginalized groups. However, unequal uptake driven by differences in education, digital literacy, and access to complementary financial services creates a paradox: while mobile money reduces some barriers to inclusion, it simultaneously risks amplifying socioeconomic divides. Implications: The study advances the literature on digital finance by highlighting the context-specific mechanisms through which mobile money influences income inequality. Policy implications point to the need for targeted interventions that strengthen digital capabilities, expand access across income groups, and ensure that financial innovation contributes to equitable development.
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    Working capital management, accounts receivable, and performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
    (Goodwood Publishing, 2025-12-05) Eton, Marus; Mwosi, Fabian; Ogwel, Bernard Patrick; Olupot, Simon Peter
    Purpose: This study examined how working capital management and accounts receivables influence the performance of SMEs in Uganda and proposes policy options to address the financial and managerial challenges identified. The study provides insights into how efficient financial practices can support SME sustainability in a competitive business environment. Research Methodology: A cross-sectional research design was adopted to assess the existing conditions of working capital management and accounts receivable practices. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire distributed to 180 SMEs selected for the study. Inferential statistical techniques were applied during data analysis to test the research hypotheses, and several hypothesis tests were conducted to form a sound basis for interpretation and conclusion. Results: The findings indicate that improvements in working capital management significantly enhance SME performance. Similarly, better accounts receivable practices—such as offering discounts and regularly reviewing credit policies—can contribute to improved financial outcomes. The results show that both working capital management and accounts receivables are significant predictors of SME performance. Conclusions: SMEs that adopt sound working capital and receivables management strategies can thrive even in challenging business environments. Effective financial management also reduces the need for borrowed capital, enabling SMEs to operate more efficiently and sustainably. Limitations: The study was geographically limited to Lira City, which may restrict the applicability of findings to broader contexts. Contribution: The study provides important guidance for SME owners and policymakers on how working capital and receivables management practices influence enterprise performance.